How to Choose the Best Cot Beds for Your Baby
If you're expecting a baby it's crucial to select a cot that will be secure and safe for your baby. Find a cot with fixed sides (rather than drop-sides) that meet strict UK safety standards.
cots offers is this simple yet stylish coffin from John Lewis' Anyday range. It comes with three mattress positions, teething rails as well as a storage drawer. It is also simple to assemble, with clear instructions.
Comfort
The most comfortable cot beds keep children warm and cozy. Choose a soft, breathable fabric and make sure the mattress is snug to avoid any gaps, which could pose the risk of suffocation. There are many types of mattresses available: coils springs, foam and natural materials for allergy sufferers. Do your research to find the most suitable one for your child.
It doesn't matter if you pick a standard cot or a convertible cot, a good mattress is crucial to ensure your ease of use. It must provide the right support and encourage a healthy posture. The same applies to the slats, which should be firmly attached and not sagging or bent. The slats must be securely attached to the frame, so that your child isn't caught in them when moving during sleep.
If you're not sure what mattress to buy, ask friends and family or check online reviews for suggestions. Make sure visit this website choose a mattress that's air-conditioned, as they'll help maintain temperature and are less likely to harbor bacteria.
There are many styles to pick from, including traditional sleighs with ornate details and modern, sleek designs. cots offers are even painted in bright primary colors which is perfect for those who want their baby to wake up feeling bright and cheerful!
The majority of cots have an under-bed storage drawer and teething rails that stop your child from chewing on the sides of the cot, and height bases that are adjustable to accommodate your child's growth. You can also buy an extra drop-side for babies that aren't tall enough or suffer from health issues that make it difficult to bend over.
Find a cot that is compliant with the strict UK safety standard and is able to be easily transformed into a toddler's cot when it is time. Find this information in the description or in the specifications.
Safety
A safe and secure sleeping environment is a must and a major factor when selecting a crib. The mattress should be snugly fitted and there shouldn't be gaps between the mattress and the sides or ends of the cot or cot-bed (large gaps could hold the child's arms and head). Verify that the mattress is solid and thin - more thick mattresses aren't recommended as they may increase the risk of SIDS. There are many companies that offer a variety of mattresses, from simple foam to natural substances for allergy sufferers. Some even contain anti-microbial treatments. If your cot has a drop-side, make sure it is locked and in the upward position.
Drop sides should only be allowed to go down only when an adult is present in the room. This will prevent accidental releases. If your coffin has a solid edge, avoid placing it against the wall since this will restrict airflow and may contribute to coffin death. According to the latest research, cots with slatted edges are safer since they allow for more airflow.
If your cot is fixed to one side, you should choose it. It's the most secure choice for your baby when they begin to crawl and pull themselves up. When your child is climbing with confidence and standing, it's time to upgrade to a junior bed.
Some cots have a feature where the base can be raised to three different levels, so that it will increase with your child's growth which is extremely practical and a great security measure. Some cots come with adjustable footplates that are ideal for toddlers who love to stand up.
If you are putting your child in their cot, ensure whether there is no visible danger. It must be kept away from heaters or power points, windows and curtains and blind cords (these pose a strangulation risk). If you are buying second-hand furniture or heirlooms, be sure to look for any dangers to your child's health such as stickers and transfers. They may peel off and pose a danger.
If you're not sure what you should do to use your cot, consult other parents for advice or go to a local NCT New Baby class. If your cot has instructions, read them carefully before using it, and then follow the safe-use instructions closely.
Style
This gorgeous cot bed with its sleigh-style design will look fantastic in your nursery. Our panel members loved the combination of natural and white pine, as well as its clever features, such as under-bed storage drawers that can hold all the baby necessities like nappies, bedding and a stunning array of baby outfits. It is also easy to build, with clear instructions and separate screws for each section. What's more, it can be converted into a toddler bed or desk when your child gets older (see the product description for more details).
The rails for teething are among our most loved features. They keep your child from hitting their head on the side of the crib or any protruding portion of the crib, like the corner post or handle. They also stop them from chewing the wood, and prevent them from suffocating. The cot also has a drop-side for easier access to your newborn. We are thrilled that it can be converted to a toddler bed, and it's built to last for four years. It also met the strict UK safety standards. You can find these in the key specs below each product.
Cot beds can be converted into toddler beds if your child is old enough. This allows you to avoid purchasing an entirely new bed as your child gets ready to make the leap. They are more expensive than cribs.
If your nursery is very small, a crib might be the best option for you since it is smaller and takes up less space. However, if your child is likely to spend much of their time in their parents' room or you're looking for a more durable bed, opt for a crib.
If the cot you are using does not meet the UK safety standards as defined by BS EN 716 or BS 8509 (which covers the thickness of mattresses, the materials used, and other important elements of baby mattresses for cots), it is unsafe for babies to sleep. The slats shouldn't be too far apart, to ensure your baby doesn't get tossed out.
Stores
The amount of baby gear you'll need is overwhelming regardless of whether you're a first-time parent or a seasoned one. It is important to think about storage when you choose a cot. Many cots come with additional storage options like drawers under the bed or a coordinating top changer (available separately). Certain cots can be transformed into a toddler bed or small single bed to extend their use.
Some cot beds can be transformed into a daybed like this one on the Cam Cam Copenhagen Harlequin Cot. This is an ideal option for those who prefer an unstructured design since the process of conversion is simple and requires just the removal of one side panel. This lets parents save on the cost of an additional bed.
A few cot beds have a hanging rail which can be used to store muslins dummies and other small items. This makes everything neat, tidy and organized. It also looks beautiful. Being able to access these items makes it easier for parents when feeding their baby.
Another desirable feature to look out for is a teething rail that comes with cots. This will stop your child from chewing on the wooden cot which can cause irritation. Some cots are designed with a more traditional style and have a huge drawer under the bed that is perfect for storing blankets, toys, clothes and other baby necessities.
While this is a great idea for when you're running out of space, you should be aware that you'll require a separate additional drawer. You may also have to purchase a different mattress and bedding, as oval mattresses and sheets are not typically included with the cot itself.
This sleigh-style cot is stunning example of Scandi style at its finest. It has a large under-bed storage space that is perfect for keeping all baby essentials out-of-sight but within easy access. The alphabetically labeled parts and clear instructions made it simple to put together for our panel. It's suitable for babies from birth and can be made into a toddler bed once your child is ready, meaning it's also a good value.
